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A plated serving of seared salmon on a white ceramic plate, topped with a wedge of lemon. Accompanying the salmon is lemon-colored orzo pasta garnished with fresh herbs, with a drizzle of olive oil around the dish. The salmon has a crispy, golden-brown crust, and the orzo appears fluffy and aromatic, with sprigs of parsley for color contrast.

Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo: Quick & Delicious Dinner!

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Enjoy a quick and delicious dinner with Seared Salmon with Lemon Orzo — a perfect balance of crispy seared salmon fillets and vibrant lemon-infused pasta, ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. This flavorful recipe combines tender fish with zesty, citrusy orzo, making your meal both healthy and impressive.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
  • Optional: cherry tomatoes or steamed vegetables for added color and nutrition

Instructions

  1. Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and lemon zest for flavor. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and sear for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally. Once tender and most liquid has evaporated, stir in lemon juice and zest. Optionally, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  3. To serve, plate the lemon orzo and top with the seared salmon fillets. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Optional: add roasted cherry tomatoes or steamed vegetables on the side. Serve with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Pat the salmon dry for a crisp sear.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for brightness.
  • Aim for slightly pink center when cooking salmon to avoid overcooking.
  • Stir lemon juice into the orzo just before serving to keep it fresh.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Searing, Boiling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Healthy, Gluten-Free (if GF orzo used)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Find it online: https://deliciousdailyrecipes.com/seared-salmon-with-lemon-orzo-quick-delicious-dinner/